Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

waylay

verb

/weɪˈleɪ/

Definition

To stop or interrupt someone unexpectedly in order to confront them or cause them to delay.

Examples

The thief planned to waylay the unsuspecting traveler on the lonely road.
She decided to waylay her friend with a surprise party to celebrate her birthday.
During the hike, the group was waylaid by a sudden storm, forcing them to seek shelter.

Meaning

Waylay can refer to the act of ambushing someone or lying in wait to catch them off guard, often to speak to them about something important or to surprise them.